Hotel on North Is “Putting the Berkshires on the Map” Honoree

PITTSFIELD — 1Berkshire, the countywide economic development organization, announced today that The Hotel on North project has been chosen as the 2015 “Putting the Berkshires on the Map” honoree in recognition of the substantial contribution it is making to the overall image of the Berkshires. This recognition will be presented at the fifth annual Celebrate the Berkshires event on Sept. 10 at the Stationery Factory in Dalton.

Hotel on North creates a unique modern experience that also pays homage to the building’s historic character. The hotel has been called a game-changer for downtown Pittsfield because of its potential as a catalyst for further development on North Street. In 2012 MM&D, LLC principally owned by David and Laurie Tierney, bought the former Besse-Clark and Gowdy-Shandoff Buildings and 2.5 years later, have opened Hotel on North. The project represents an extraordinary collaboration, partnering many Berkshire County businesses to manage and furnish the hotel and to provide ongoing services as well as lobby galleries to display local art.

“We believe in local,” said Laurie Tierney at a formal press conference in February detailing the plans for the project. Teaming up for the property’s design and now the manager of the hotel is Main Street Hospitality Group, owner of the Red Lion Inn and operator of the Porches at MASS MoCA and the Williams Inn in Williamstown.

Don Dubendorf, Chair of 1Berkshire cited the nomination of the project as “… a collaboration that created the vision, accepted the risk, and now has realized exquisite results. This venture provides commerce and jobs, serves visitors and residents alike and celebrates creativity, the cornerstones of our Berkshire economy.”

“We are so pleased to be recognized by 1Berkshire, an entity that fosters creative collaborations throughout the region,” said David Tierney, co-owner of the hotel. “The hotel represents a $14 million commitment to the growth of downtown Pittsfield and has created 50 permanent jobs for Berkshire residents. Our family has been investing in the Berkshires for over 50 years and this project is the culmination of our belief in redevelopment.”

This year’s Celebrate the Berkshires event will also showcase Berkshire-based individuals and businesses who demonstrate excellence in several “Trendsetter Award” categories. Visit 1Berkshire.com to reserve tickets.